This Trench Entry for Pipe Laying SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) sets out how workers enter an open, assessed trench to lay, joint and lower pipe sections. It covers sign-off of ground support, Before You Dig checks, ladder access, exclusion zones, gas testing, communication with the excavator or crane operator, guiding suspended pipe, monitoring trench walls and securing tools before leaving. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Plumbing and drainage contractors
Civil and pipeline contractors
Water and sewer authority crews
Irrigation installers
Telecommunications and conduit installers
Use it to
Train and induct workers in exactly how you expect the task to be done
Keep a clear reference at the machine, in the vehicle or on site
Record competency with the built-in sign-off
Show clients, insurers and auditors your safe work methods are written down
What this SOP covers
Trench wall collapse or cave-in trapping or burying a worker
Falling into the trench from unprotected or unstable edges
Tools, materials or pipe dropped into the trench
Being struck or crushed by a swinging or falling suspended pipe
Low oxygen and hazardous gases in the trench atmosphere
Contact with live underground services
Excavators swinging or reversing near the trench edge
Spoil, plant or materials sliding into the trench
Manual handling of pipe in a tight space and slips on a muddy floor
Noise from plant working nearby
What's included
9 pre-operational checks, from ground support sign-off and service location to ladder access, gas testing and lifting gear
An 11-step operating procedure covering exclusion zones, safe access, suspended loads, guiding pipe, working positions and monitoring walls
Isolation and energy control for working alongside excavators and cranes, spoil placement and securing small plant
5 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for trench collapse, cave-in, engulfment and gas alarms
PPE checklist and a list of related documents
Competency acknowledgement and worker sign-off
Space for your logo, SOP number, version and review dates
Why use this template
Saves hours compared with writing an SOP from a blank page
Written as clear, numbered steps that workers can follow on the job
Fully editable, so you can match it to your equipment, site and how your team works
The competency sign-off gives you a training record from day one
How it works
Buy online and download straight away. You'll also get an email with your link.
Add your logo, company name, SOP number and dates.
Check it suits your equipment and site, and edit anything you need to.
Train your workers and have them sign the competency acknowledgement.
Need more than one SOP?
This SOP is also included in the Ultimate Plumbing SOP Bundle. At $197 for the whole bundle, it works out much cheaper than buying SOPs one at a time.
Common questions
Does it cover installing shoring or benching?
No. It covers working in a trench that has already been assessed and supported by a competent person. Designing, installing and inspecting ground support is covered by your excavation and trench support procedure.
Can workers enter a trench to rescue someone?
No. The SOP states trench rescue needs specialist training and equipment. Workers evacuate, raise the alarm and call emergency services.
Can I change it?
Yes. It's a Microsoft Word file, so you can add, remove or change any step, check or hazard, and add your own logo and details.
Does it suit my state?
Yes. It's written to the model WHS laws and suits all states and territories, including Victoria under the OHS Act and Regulations.
What if it doesn't suit my work?
You're covered by our 30-day money-back guarantee if it isn't fit for purpose.
